Nearly 79,000 People Participated in Arts in California Parks — 40% visiting for first time
Nearly 79,000 people participated in Arts in California Parks events during 2025, according to an independent evaluation released today by California State Parks and Parks California. The findings document a program that is reaching people who have never previously set foot in their local park — and changing their relationship to it.
Caring for California Looks Like Caring for Me
A field trip that sparks a new career path. A kayak paddle down the Los Angeles River. A circus workshop in the park down the street. However people first meet California’s parks, that first experience can be the one that lasts.
California State Parks, Parks California and Faces SF Host Fourth Annual Kite by the Bay at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area
California State Parks, Parks California and Faces SF will host the fourth annual Kite by the Bay festival at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 1 to 4 p.m. The free event is open to all ages and offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and community connection along the San Francisco Bay shoreline.
Hidden Gems: Parks California Staff Share Their Insider Tips
California’s state parks stretch from redwood forest to desert floor, coastline to alpine lake — proof that no two days here need to look the same. When it comes to finding a new favorite, we turn to the people who dedicate their days to caring for these special places.
Parks California Announces 2027 Board Leadership and Welcomes Two New Members
Parks California has announced new leadership for its board of directors, effective January 2027.
Beach Smart: Tips from California State Parks Lifeguards
Beach days are a great way to spend the longer, warmer days, but alongside your sunscreen and beach towel, don’t forget to bring a commitment to water safety.
Parks California Honored by California State Park and Recreation Commission for Advancing Access, Stewardship and Innovation
The California State Park and Recreation Commission honored Parks California with a proclamation recognizing the organization’s contributions to the California State Park System during its July 2 meeting at Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
Caring for California, One Conversation at a Time
On summer weekends, thousands of people gather along the South Yuba River, swimming in clear pools, hiking forest trails and soaking up one of California’s true natural treasures.
But the Yuba River is more than just a favorite spot. It’s one of California’s most important and storied rivers, full of life and history.
A 21st-Century Model for Field Trips Begins Before Students Arrive
For generations, field trips have sparked curiosity and helped students connect classroom lessons to the world around them. Today, California State Parks and our partners provide a modern, 21st-century model to make sure every student feels welcome and inspired by California’s natural wonders.
Parks California Opens Applications for 2027 Route to Parks Grants
California State Parks and nonprofit partner Parks California today invited community and tribal organizations throughout the state to apply for the 2027 Route to Parks grants. The program will award approximately $1.1 million to help more people in underserved communities experience California’s state parks, the largest and most diverse state park system in the nation.